A Visual History of Ryan Gosling’s Hair

Just admit it, you wish you were Ryan Gosling—don’t worry, we all do. He’s of a rare breed, one of the few men who could look his worst and still be held highly among the ranks of heavy-hitters like Clooney and McQueen. And yes, this reputation is built largely on that perfectly tailored yet rebellious style, and general IDGAF attitude, that we’ve all come to know and love. But it’s Gosling’s devil-may-care mane that cements his status as a certified icon, and it doesn’t get nearly enough credit for doing so. So, to honor the Gos’s turning 35 years old today, we’re taking a look back at how the man’s signature follicular gifts have evolved over his years in the spotlight.

Raw Talent, 2001

Everyone’s gotta start somewhere and for Gosling, that meant this unruly blank canvas of a haircut and a clean-shaven baby face.

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A cautionary tale: even the most dashing of men have trouble with sideburn length. Remember, unless you’ve got a beard, the southernmost outposts of your hairline should never migrate below the ear.

The Burns, 2003

The early 2000s were a weird time for everyone, really.

The Messy Chop, 2004

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Not everyone can pull off a buzz cut but if, like Gosling, you’re among the lucky few, this winter might be the time to go for it.

The Close Buzz, 2005

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Always heading up trends, Gosling embraced his facial bounty long before beards hit their stride. (If you’re in the mood to follow suit, here are a few tools to help.

The Full Beard, 2006

At some point in every man’s life, attempting a mustache seems like a good idea. For some, it works; others, debatable. Your call on where the Gos stands.

The Creep ‘Stache, 2007

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Let’s call this a turning point; when Ryan’s grooming went from questionable to clean in a big way. It’s amazing the difference a touch of pomade and a solid electric beard trimmer can make.

Cleaning Up, 2008

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And just like that, a true grooming god is born. Structured, but not over the top, clean, but not meticulous, this Cannes look is one of Gosling’s best. The key: texture. Ask your barber to cut at a diagonal for a similar effect.

The Textured Cut, 2010

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Taking the daring up a notch with a little less product and a little more beard, Gosling deftly toes the line between caring about how he looks and not at all.

The Loose Part, 2011

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It’s at this point that we hit peak “Hey Girl” Gosling. Because nothing says icon like looking good even when you’re traveling.

The Off-Duty Crew, 2012

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Where the hair naturally parts is different for every man on Earth. For Gosling, it happens to land closer to the center. Find yours, and don’t fight it. Resistance is futile.

The Hard Part, 2014

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What’s one supposed to do when they reach peak handsome? Take risks of course, and that’s exactly what Gosling's been up to. His sweeping devilock here is a testament to the man’s ability to pull off anything, anytime, simply by not giving two shits what you think.